Restoring Dignity with Showers and Clean Clothes

For many of us, the ability to take a hot shower each day or do laundry in the comfort of our homes is something we rarely think twice about. But for individuals experiencing homelessness, access to these basic services can be lifechanging.

Since April 2025, The Salvation Army’s Connection Point in Langford, B.C., has offered private showers and laundry service through a new initiative called the Dignity Project. The program provides unhoused individuals the chance to meet essential needs with comfort and privacy.

The idea was born from conversations with clients who already accessed services at Connection Point.

“I think what we are seeing through the Dignity Project is a real transforming influence,” says Captain Laura Hickman, corps officer at Connection Point Church and Resource Centre. “It’s beautiful to be able to have a service that meets a very basic, practical need.”

So far, the operation has run smoothly.

“It’s beautiful to be able to have a service that meets a very basic, practical need.”

“It has worked well to have an open-door, first-come, first-served system without appointments,” Captain Laura says. “Up to this point, the demand has been met.”

While the laundry facilities are very useful, it’s the private showers that seem to be positively impacting the clients the most.

“One of our clients mentioned she got emotional standing in the shower. She said the water was hot and felt so refreshing. She appreciated the privacy,” Captain Laura shares. “It makes a world of difference for our friends to come in and to have a private shower.”

“This project came as a direct result of the community coming together.”

Guests are invited to enjoy a cup of coffee at the on-site café while waiting for laundry or after showering.

“This project came as a direct result of the community coming together and transforming this space,” Captain Laura says.

The staff noticed unused space in Connection Point’s basement. The landlord generously allowed the area to be transformed and local developers partnered with community stakeholders to renovate it as a gift to The Salvation Army.

“We’re just grateful. It was a tremendous gift,” Captain Laura adds.

Now that the Dignity Project is fully underway, donations are always welcome to help keep it running smoothly and meet increased demand.

Donations of soap, detergent and shampoo are very helpful. Monetary contributions also assist in maintaining the facilities.

By Juan Romero